Historic Milestone at Flushing Meadows

Alexandra Eala scripted a new chapter for Philippine sports on Sunday, overcoming world No. 14 Clara Tauson 6-3, 2-6, 7-6(13-11) in a pulsating 2-hour-36-minute US Open first-round clash. The victory marks:

• First Filipino singles main draw win in Open Era
• First top-20 scalp of Eala's career
• Third-set comeback from 1-5 deficit

The Decisive Moment

With Tauson serving at 5-4 in the final set, Eala unleashed a fearless backhand down the line to save match point, triggering roars from Queens' Little Manila supporters. The Dane's subsequent argument with chair umpire Kader Nouni over a disputed net cord call further energized the pro-Eala crowd.

"When I saw 1-5 on the scoreboard, I told myself: This is New York. Miracles happen here," Eala told BBC Sport post-match.

Road to Redemption

Cultural Impact & Future Prospects

The victory sparked celebrations across Manila's Rizal Park Tennis Center, where 3,000 fans watched via live screening. Eala's next challenge comes against Cristina Bucsa/Claire Liu, with potential third-round clash vs defending champion Aryna Sabalenka.

Key Stats:

• 38 winners (22 from forehand wing)
• 71% net points won
• Saved 7/10 break points in final set

"This is just the beginning," Eala declared, now projected to rise to world No. 62. "When I hear 'Para sa bayan!' (For the nation!), I play with 120 million hearts."